Science of the Saints, 8-I-2019 (26 Dec.) THE SYNAXIS OF THE THEOTOKOS AND EVER-VIRGIN MARY.

The Synaxis of the Most Holy Mother of God.

This Synaxis – which is to say, our coming together to glorify the Theotokos – is celebrated especially in her honour because she gave birth supernaturally to the Son and Word Of God, and thus became the instrument of the salvation of mankind.

Apolytikion of Synaxis of the Theotokos

Thy Nativity, O Christ our God, hath shined the light of knowledge upon the world; for thereby they that worshipped the stars were instructed by a star to worship Thee, the Sun of Righteousness, and to know Thee, the Dayspring from on high. O Lord, glory be to Thee.

Kontakion of Synaxis of the Theotokos

He, who was begotten of the Father before the morning star, without a mother, becometh incarnate of thee today, without a father. Wherefore, a star announceth the good news to the Magi. Angels with shepherds praise thine immaculate birth-giving, O Full of Grace.